International Herb : Culture

I consider this the classic example of Culture. International Herb was first released in 1979, my copy is the '91 CD issued by Shanachie. A super solid ten track disc that I've had since about '97, my favorite tracks are #1 (International Herb) and #6 (Too Long in Slavery). The reality is the whole disc is excellent. It carries that great "early 80's" roots sound that began to flourish around the time of it's original release. A remastered version has since been released in 2001, but I'm still rattling around my old scuffed up copy that seems to play forever. This group and this album helped define the "roots" sound we love so much. The harmony work is sweet and inspired. If you like the Itals "Brutal Out Deh" or Burning Spear classics such as Garvey then you'll be pleased with the work put in on this disc.

Englishman : Barrington Levy

This is simply one of best albums in my collection. A very rootsy & classic album from Barrington Levy in his younger years. I think it's from 1979-1980 off of the Greensleeves label. This one is solid from start to finish, but a couple tracks stand out for shure: #6 (Look Youthman), #8 (Blackheartman), and #9 (Money Makes Friends). Of course the last four tracks are killer extended mixes of (Sister Carol) and (Englishman), but you have to make shure you get the recent re-issued disc. Mr. Levy displays some outstanding vocal range and these great fluctuating notes that fit into the music as naturally as another instrument. Englishman is a Junjo Lawes production with classics studio musicians like Flabba, Santa, and Chinna. When you see the talent that layed these tracks you'll put it in your top ten as well. The question is how close to the top it will be.